IND vs AFG: On Sunday, January 7, BCCI announced the squad for the first time against the Afghanistan team visiting India. Senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are returning to the team, and both players will be seen playing together in T20 matches after a long gap of 14 months. Secondly, key players like Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and KL Rahul are out of the squad due to injury. In such a situation, the question arises: who will replace them? Down below this article cover: Team India Expected Playing 11 in first T20I



The first match between India and Afghanistan will be played at the Punjab Cricket Association's IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. There could be a lot of headache for Rohit Sharma in choosing his playing 11 in the first T20I. Rohit's aim will be to fill the places of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, along with the challenge of choosing a strong bowling attack.



The biggest challenge before the captain will be to choose his fellow opener batsman; only one of Shubham Gill and Yashvi Jaiswal can get a place in the team. But Jaiswal has been playing well in T20 cricket for some time now, due to which he may get first priority. The team management will also try to take advantage of the left-right combination.



King Kohli will be seen playing in his favorite position, number 3. In place of T20 number 1 batsman Suryakumar Yadav, either Sanju Samson or Tilak Verma can be seen playing. The Indian team will also be looking for a wicketkeeper; in such a situation, it is almost certain that Sanju Samson will be in the playing 11.



Rinku Singh, who has performed brilliantly in the T20 format, will play his role at number five against Afghanistan, while Shivam Dubey and Washington Sundar can be seen batting in the lower order.



The Indian captain will take the field with three fast bowlers and one spinner in the first T20 match against Afghanistan. The captain does not have many options among fast bowlers, and in the absence of senior players Siraj, Shami, and Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Mukesh Kumar are in the playing 11. And Avesh Khan can be seen playing. Among Kuldeep Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep can get a place in the playing 11 because, along with good bowling, he also brings experience with him.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">India Expected Playing 11</h4>



Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, and Mukesh Kumar.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">India Full Squad</h4>



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Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Tilak Verma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, and Mukesh Kumar.



Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-afg-former-selector-explains-why-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-were-picked-in-team-indias-squad-for-afghanistan/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/ind-vs-afg-former-selector-explains-why-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-were-picked-in-team-indias-squad-for-afghanistan/">Former selector explains why Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli were picked in Team India?s squad for Afghanistan</a>



For more details head to?<a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICC?s?</a>official website.

IND vs AFG: Team India Expected Playing 11 in first T20I | India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I

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IND vs AFG, Funny Moment: Team India is playing against Afghanistan in the first T20i of the three-match T20i series at the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali. Men in Blue skipper Rohit Sharma, who is known for his big hitting skills and the ability to forget the names of his players, once again grabbed attention for forgetting his playing 11. The Indian captain won the toss, chose to field first, and started to reveal the names of the players who were not a part of the playing 11.



Rohit took the names of Avesh Khan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Sanju Samson but forgot the name of Kuldeep Yadav. He received help from commentator Murali Karthik, who gave Rohit a reminder about Kuldeep Yadav missing out on the playing 11 as the 36-year-old had informed Karthik before the toss.



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?I will tell you the names of the guys who are not a part of the playing 11, Avesh Khan, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal (who didn't pull up well), and then one more, as I told you before the toss, the four players who are not playing. Kuldeep is playing. Asked Murali Karthik, yes, correct, Kuldeep Yadav is not playing,? Rohit Sharma said at the toss.



Rohit Sharma has a knack of forgetting things, and he even forgot whether he wanted to bat first or bowl first in an ODI game. Indian batter Virat Kohli once revealed that Rohit tends to forget his belongings at the team hotel or on flights.



Opening batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal is not a part of India's playing 11 for the 1st T20i against Afghanistan due to having a sore right groin. Before the commencement of the three-match T20i series, Indian Head Coach Rahul Dravid had backed the youngster to open the innings for the Men in Blue alongside captain Rohit Sharma, who is returning to the T20 Internationals after a span of 14 months.



Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-england-kl-rahul-to-focus-on-batting-ishan-kishan-likely-to-keep-the-wickets-against-england-rahul-dravid/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/india-vs-england-kl-rahul-to-focus-on-batting-ishan-kishan-likely-to-keep-the-wickets-against-england-rahul-dravid/"> India vs England: KL Rahul to focus on batting, Ishan Kishan likely to keep the wickets against England</a>



Visit the?<a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/homepage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICC OFFICIAL WEBSITE</a>?for more recent updates.

IND vs AFG, Funny Moment: Rohit Sharma forgets the name of his teammate once again at the toss between India and Afghanistan

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India's journey to reach the ICC World Test Championship final is getting tougher as each day passes by. They are currently locking horns with Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 and two matches are still left in the series, which will decide their fate. 
India is currently engaged in the fourth game, and the game will be concluding tomorrow. The game is likely to see all three results. Australia are currently 333 runs ahead with one wicket in hand, and it is expected that India will have to chase around 350 runs if they pick a wicket early. 
A win will take India close to the final of the ICC World Test Championship as if they win the Sydney Test, they will qualify directly for the final. But if the ongoing game ends in a draw, the path will be very a bit tough for him as they need to win the next match, which will be a must-win. 
If the ongoing match ends in a draw and India wins the Sydney Test, then Australia needs to lose one match in their next series against Sri Lanka. If this all happens then the Rohit Sharma-led side will be entering the final of the ICC World Test Championship and will be playing South Africa at Lord's. 
But if the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 ends in a draw, then India will have a massive threat as both Sri Lanka and Australia will be in contention for the final. If the island nation beats the Pat Cummins-led side by the margin of 2-0, then they will qualify for the final of the ICC World Test Championship. 
India, however, can still qualify even if the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 ends in 1-1, but it will be an impossible task. In this scenario, Sri Lanka should win the series 1-0 and draw one game in the series. But this is impossible as Galle always has match results, which will be a cause of concern for India.
<h2>India's qualification scenario for the ICC World Test Championship </h2>
Here's India's qualification scenario for the ICC World Test Championship
- If the MCG Test ends in a draw.
- SCG Test is a must-win match.
- Then Australia shouldn't win both games against Sri Lanka. 
(India can qualify even if BGT ends in 1-1 but then SL should win the series 1-0 which is impossible as Galle always has match results) 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/sportswear-brand-puma-slams-sanjay-manjrekar-on-nitish-to-be-dropped-remark-after-reddy-s-spectacular-boxing-day-ton-/">Sportswear brand Puma slams Sanjay Manjrekar on "Nitish to be dropped" remark after Reddy's spectacular Boxing Day Ton </a>

India's journey to reach the ICC World Test Championship final is getting tougher as each day passes by.

Massive threat for India! Sri Lanka all set to qualify for the WTC Final if...

massive-threat-for-india-sri-lanka-all-set-to-qualify-for-the-wtc-final-if-

IND vs AUS: The fourth day of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground ended with the hosts at 228/9, courtesy of an excellent 55-run unbeaten stand for the last wicket between Scott Boland (10*) and Nathan Lyon (41*).
It was a day that had non-stop action, and the momentum shifted from one team to another. However, eventually, Australia would be happy as they have a lead of 333 on the board with one wicket in the bank. On the other hand, India would be disappointed after they let the momentum slip away from their hands.
India might have a target of around 350 or more to chase on the last day with a batting lineup that have a vulnerable top order. Can they do it? Well, we saw an incredible chase at the Gabba on the last tour by a second-string Indian side. But can this team repeat that history?
<h2>IND vs AUS: Marnus Labuschagne reckons Australia have great momentum heading into 5th days of MCG test </h2>
Australia were in deep trouble on Day 4 when they lost their sixth wicket for 91 runs. The total lead was below 200 at that time. But the last four wickets have added crucial 137 runs, and still one wicket is there to take for the Indians.
It has put India under some sort of pressure. Though India have done it before on Australian soil, chasing 328 at Gabba in 2021 on the last day. But Marnus Labuschagne feels that that is not going to happen again.
In a discussion on the ICC, Labuschagne gave Australia a bright chance to win the game. He talked about the wicket of the Gabba in 2021 and the current surface and said, "That wicket at the Gabba was flat. We were also in that position in that Test where we had to try and set a total. Ideally we would have liked to set India more, but because we had to risk it a little bit more."
The right-hander, who played a crucial knock of 70 runs in the second innings, also revealed that the hosts were planning to declare and bowl some overs at the back end to have a crack at the Indians. He admitted that the Indians bowled well in the first 40-50 overs and didn't let them score freely, and they wanted more runs.
That is why Australia didn't declare. However, India still have a uphill task in front of them. The lead has reached 333 runs, and it will always be tough on the final day of the game. If India can pull something spectacular, it will be the highest chase ever at the MCG. India need runs from their top order if they want to get near to the target.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/wtc-final-south-africa-secure-the-final-berth-here-s-how-india-can-qualify-for-the-world-test-championship-final/">WTC Final: South Africa secure the final berth; here's how India can qualify for the World Test Championship final</a>

Australia have a lead of 333 runs and one wicket in hand. India will have a big score to chase on the final day of the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

Can India repeat Gabba 2021 heroics? Marcus Labuschagne reckons Australia are favourites going into the fifth Day 

can-india-repeat-gabba-2021-heroics-marcus-labuschagne-reckons-australia-are-favourites-going-into-the-fifth-day-

India batter Virat Kohli was at his animated best during the Day four of the ongoing fourth Test against Australia. The match between the teams is taking place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne. 
India staged a decent comeback in the match and has given them a great chance to win the game. This was possible because of Virat Kohli and his electric effort on the field. The batter lifted the entire team and with the way he was charging up, Australian was under pressure. 
Virat Kohli also took over the charge of the Indian team as well as he was seen captaining the team. The batter was seen getting the field placements and also was seen passing on the inputs to the skipper Rohit Sharma, as the crowd was also behind him all the time. 
Virat Kohli also plotted the wicket of Steve Smith for Mohammed Siraj, and not only this, he was seen having a chat with both the bowlers, telling them to bowl which lines and lengths. You can see the video below the article: 
Coming to the match, India had another decent day with the bat in the ongoing fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Their effort with the bat and ball has given them a real chance to win the game at MCG. 
Nitish Kumar Reddy (114)  could add just nine runs to his overnight tally as the Indian innings ended on 369 runs, trailing by 105 runs. Pat Cummins, Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon picked three wickets each. 
Australia, in the second innings, had a poor start to their innings as Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj were all over the batters. The hosts were left tottering at 96 for six, but at the other end, Marnus Labuschagne (70) held the one end and took his team out of trouble along with Pat Cummins (41) as the duo added 57 runs for the seventh wicket. 
After Marnus and Cummins got out, Nathan Lyon (41*) and Scott Boland (10*) frustrated the bowlers and took the lead over 330 runs with their 55-run partnership. At stumps on Day four, Australia was 228 for nine with a lead of 333 runs.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/sportswear-brand-puma-slams-sanjay-manjrekar-on-nitish-to-be-dropped-remark-after-reddy-s-spectacular-boxing-day-ton-/">Sportswear brand Puma slams Sanjay Manjrekar on "Nitish to be dropped" remark after Reddy's spectacular Boxing Day Ton </a>
<h2>Watch: Virat Kohli taks charge of Indian team, passes inputs to bowlers</h2>

India batter Virat Kohli was at his animated best during the Day four of the ongoing fourth Test against Australia.

Watch: Virat makes comeback as Test captain, helps Rohit Sharma in the field setting

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The first test between South Africa and Pakistan in SuperSport Park in Centurion has ended with a thrilling finish as the hosts held their nerves to edge past Pakistan. South Africa won the first game by just two wickets to take an unassailable 1-0 lead in the series.
With this win, they have also made it into the final of the World Test Championship 2023-25. South Africa became the first team to make it to the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at Lord's Cricket Stadium in June, 2025.
This was the special performance from the hosts as they were reduced to 99/8 while chasing 148 runs. Then Marco Jansen (16*) and Kagiso Rabada (31* off 26) added an unbeaten 51 off 50 balls for the ninth wicket to take South Africa home. This partnership also helped South Africa to book a WTC final berth, and only one spot is remaining.
<h2>WTC Final: South Africa confirmed their place, and here is how India can qualify for the final.</h2>
With one spot already booked, the fight for the second spot is WTC. Australia, India, and Sri Lanka are the front runners. Australia are second, while India and Sri Lanka are third and fourth on the WTC 2023-25 table. Hence, the result of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Stadium between India and Australia will make a big impact on the standings.
Going into the final day, both teams have a slight chance, with Australia holding an upper hand. But anything is possible in the final. Meanwhile, India and Australia are both eyeing a WTC final spot. India still have a chance to qualify, but their qualification depends on various scenarios, which we will discuss here below.
Scenario 1: India must win the remaining two tests at MCG and SCG to finish above Australia's NRR to qualify.
Scenario 2: If the MCG test ends in a draw, then India must win the fifth test. In that case, India should hope that Sri Lanka beat Australia in one of two tests at home.
Scenario 3: If the BGT series ends 1-1, India should pray that Sri Lanka win the series against Australia 1-0.
All these scenarios can help India finish above Australia on the final WTC standings. But if India lose even one game or lose the BGT series, they will be out of the race. So, India don't have any other option than winning.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-five-highest-totals-chased-down-by-india-in-test-cricket-/">Top five highest totals chased down by India in Test cricket</a>

South Africa beat Pakistan in the first Test by 2 wickets to qualify for the final of the World Test Championship 2023-24 at Lord's in June 2025.

WTC Final: South Africa secure the final berth; here's how India can qualify for the World Test Championship final

wtc-final-south-africa-secure-the-final-berth-here-s-how-india-can-qualify-for-the-world-test-championship-final

The South African Men's National Cricket Team, under the leadership of Temba Bavuma became the first team to secure the 2023-25 WTC cycle Final berth as they triumphed over Shan Masood-led Pakistan in the first Test-Match at Centurion on Sunday, 29th of December. 
After struggling at 99-8 in the run chase of 148 runs, the home side cross the finish line thanks to a magnificent partnership of the ninth-wicket between tailenders Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada. 
The win in the Centurion Test-Match over the Shaheens has steered the Proteas to 88 points in 11 encounters in the current WTC cycle, giving a significant boost to their PCT to 66.67 ahead of the PCT of the Mighty Australians i.e 58.89 and Team India's 55.89 PCT. Both of those teams are currently fighting it out against each other in the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series which is currently tied at 1-1.
With the Proteas confirming their ticket to the WTC Final, which will be held at the iconic Lord's Cricket Stadium between the 11th of June to 15th of June of 2025, only Australia and the Indian Team are the only two realistic contenders fighting it out versus each other secure the other vacant final spot. 
The Temba Bavuma-led team became just the fourth team to qualify for the WTC final after Team India (2021&amp; 2023), Reigning Champions Australia (2023) and inaugural-winners New Zealand, who lifted the WTC Test Mace in 2021 under the captaincy of Kane Williamson. 
The Proteas kicked off their 2023-25 WTC campaign with a 1-1 home Test-Series draw versus the Men in Blue before falling to a 2-0 defeat versus the Kiwis in February of this year. Temba Bavum and CO then secured two consecutive series wins over the Windies and the Bangladeshi Tigers before securing a easy 2-0 home series win versus Sri Lanka earlier this month
This defeat versus South Africa was Pakistan's seventh one in the current WTC cycle in 11 participated emcounters and this defeat meant they have dropped down to the eighth position below Asian-rivals Bangladesh in the overall WTC Standings. The 2nd and final Test-Match between both the teams will be played in the city of Cape Town from the 3rd of January, 2025.
<h2>Updated WTC Points-table:</h2>
<table class="table cb-srs-pnts" style="width: 99.5122%; height: 383.359px;">
<thead>
<tr class="cb-srs-gray-strip " style="height: 10px;">
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;" title="Position">Pos</td>
<td style="width: 2.11186%;"> </td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th text-left" style="width: 20.6963%;" title="Team">Team</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" style="width: 13.7271%;" title="Matches Played">Matches</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" style="width: 8.86982%;" title="Matches Won">Won</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" style="width: 8.02508%;" title="Matches Lost">Lost</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" style="width: 10.9817%;" title="Matches Drawn">Drawn</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" style="width: 6.54677%;" title="Matches Abandonded">NR</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" style="width: 10.7705%;" title="Total Points">Points</td>
<td class=" cb-srs-pnts-th" style="width: 11.1929%;" title="Percentage of Points">PCT</td>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 58.5938px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 2.11186%;"> </td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-left" style="width: 20.6963%;">South Africa</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 13.7271%;">11</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.86982%;">7</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.02508%;">3</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.9817%;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 6.54677%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.7705%;">88</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.1929%;">66.670</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 36.1953px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 2.11186%;"> </td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-left" style="width: 20.6963%;">Australia</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 13.7271%;">15</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.86982%;">9</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.02508%;">4</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.9817%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 6.54677%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.7705%;">106</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.1929%;">58.890</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 36.1953px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;">3</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 2.11186%;"> </td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-left" style="width: 20.6963%;">India</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 13.7271%;">17</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.86982%;">9</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.02508%;">6</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.9817%;">2</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 6.54677%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.7705%;">114</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.1929%;">55.880</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 58.5938px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;">4</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 2.11186%;"> </td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-left" style="width: 20.6963%;">New Zealand</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 13.7271%;">14</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.86982%;">7</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.02508%;">7</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.9817%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 6.54677%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.7705%;">81</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.1929%;">48.210</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 36.1953px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;">5</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 2.11186%;"> </td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-left" style="width: 20.6963%;">Sri Lanka</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 13.7271%;">11</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.86982%;">5</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.02508%;">6</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.9817%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 6.54677%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.7705%;">60</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.1929%;">45.450</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 36.1953px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;">6</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 2.11186%;"> </td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-left" style="width: 20.6963%;">England</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 13.7271%;">22</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.86982%;">11</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.02508%;">10</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.9817%;">1</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 6.54677%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.7705%;">114</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.1929%;">43.180</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 36.1953px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;">7</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 2.11186%;"> </td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-left" style="width: 20.6963%;">Bangladesh</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 13.7271%;">12</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.86982%;">4</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.02508%;">8</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.9817%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 6.54677%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.7705%;">45</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.1929%;">31.250</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 36.1953px;">
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 7.18033%;">8</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-center" style="width: 2.11186%;"></td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td text-left" style="width: 20.6963%; text-align: left;">Pakistan</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 13.7271%;">11</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.86982%;">4</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 8.02508%;">7</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.9817%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 6.54677%;">0</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 10.7705%;">40</td>
<td class="cb-srs-pnts-td" style="width: 11.1929%;">30.300</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Marco Jansen (L) and Kagiso Rabada (R) of South Africa held their nerve and helped their team secure a victory over Pakistan in Centurion  | Image: Getty Images

South Africa have become the first team to qualify for the WTC 2023-25 Final after their win over Pakistan in Centurion

Updated WTC Points-Table following South Africa's win over Pakistan | South Africa survive a scare

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The IPL is the tournament which brings the highest amount of excitement and entertainment each year and the upcoming 2025 edition of the tournament promises to be the same too. While players from across the globe look forward to participating in the competition every year, some players face certain issues due to which they don't get the chance to take part in the IPL. 
One such case is of the New Zealand based players. The New Zealand Men's team will be staying back in Pakistan post the conclusion of Champions Trophy 2025, which begins from the 19th of February and ends on the 9th of March. 
Between 16th March and 5th April, the Black Caps will be locking horns versus the Pakistani Men's National Cricket Team in a complete white-ball series and both teams will be playing a total of five T20 International matches and three One Day International contests versus each other. This is the reason why players like Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway will most likely miss the initial phase of IPL 2025.
If the New Zealand Cricket Board refuses to allow the duo of Conway and Ravindra to take part in the first three weeks of the cash-rich T20 league, then the CSK team management will be forced to look for replacements.
<h2>The replacement for Devon Conway:</h2>
If opening batter Devon Conway ends up missing the initial phase of IPL 2025, the the CSK management might make veteran batter Rahul Tripathi open the inning alongside skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. Tripathi's services were acquired by the five-time winners in the 2025 Mega-Auction for a price tag of 3.40 crore Indian rupees. If they decide to go ahead with this combination, then it will give them the flexibility to field overseas bowlers. 
<h2>Replacement for Rachin Ravindra:</h2>
Jamie Overton is most likely going to be the replacement for Rachin Ravindra. The English fast bowling all-rounder can play the role similar to the one of Ben Stokes. Sam Curran, also from England, is going to provide good company to Overton and together, these two can strengthen CSK's bowling and lower middle order. 
<h2>CSK's Strongest Playing 11 if Conway and Ravindra miss the start of IPL 2025</h2>
Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Shivam Dube, Rahul Tripathi, Ravindra Jadeja, Deepak Hooda, Jamie Overton, Sam Curran, MS Dhoni (WK), Matheesha Pathirana, Ravichandran Ashwin and Anshul Kamboj
Impact Player: Noor Ahmed,Vijay Shankar

Even during the previous season of the IPL, a cricket series was played between Pakistan and New Zealand. At that time, a total of 9 New Zealand players skipped the series and played in the IPL. It's looking highly unlikely this time around that the New Zealand Cricket Board will grant the permission to their players to skip the bilateral series in favor of the IPL. 
Do Read:

MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja of CSK bumb fists in the match versus RCB in IPL 2024 | Image: BCCI

Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra are likely to miss the start of IPL 2025 and in this article we will be taking a look at CSK's strongest playing 11 in the absence of the two Kiwi players.

IPL: CSK's strongest Playing 11 if Conway and Ravindra miss the start of IPL 2025

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IND vs AUS: At the end of Day 4, when the Aussies seemed to be struggling with 9 wickets down, Australian no. 10 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nathan_Lyon">Nathan Lyon</a> and no. 11 Scott Boland put on invaluable 50 runs for the final wicket of the inning. 
 
The Aussies posted a decent 228/9 at the end of Day 4, as they have extended their lead to 333 with some splendid innings scored from Labuschagne, skipper Cummins, and Lyon. India would have to chase a minimum of 334 runs even if Australia declared or failed to score any further runs on the final day of the Boxing Day test. 
 
The Melbourne Cricket Ground, or the MCG, is one of the most widely renowned venues in world cricket, as it has witnessed years of enriched cricket history and several iconic run chases in Test cricket. 
 
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202412/image_430x256_677119eabec43.jpg" alt="" width="784" height="488">
Lyon and Boland help Aussie extend the lead to 333 on Day 4 (Image Credit: X)
<h2 dir="ltr"></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr">Highest successful run chases at the MCG in tests:</h2>
 
1. England chased 332 against Australia in 1928.
2. England chased 298 against Australia in 1895.
3. South Africa chased 297 against Australia in 1953.
 
If India can chase down the new set target at the MCG, this will be the highest-ever run chase ever recorded at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. 
 
Jasprit Bumrah bowled the second over, the final over of Day 4, when he almost dismissed Lyon for 35 as a sharp outswinger took the Aussie no. 10’s outside edge. Indian slip fielder KL Rahul grabbed a stunner as he trapped the ball within his legs; however, all his efforts were in vain as the umpire signalled no ball, and Lyon was ruled not out. 
 
Anyway, India remains the only team from the subcontinent that has ever won a test match while chasing a target at the MCG. 

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/nitish-kumar-reddy-scripts-history-breaks-multiple-records-with-his-boxing-day-ton-at-mcg/">NK Reddy's iconic maiden hundred at the MCG </a>

Top 3 highest targets chased at MCG (Image Credit: X)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground, or the MCG, is one of the most widely renowned venues in world cricket, as it has witnessed years of enriched cricket history and several iconic run chases in Test cricket. If India can chase down the new set target at the MCG, this will be the highest-ever run chase ever recorded at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. 

IND vs AUS: If India can chase down the new set target at the MCG, this will be the highest-ever run chase ever recorded at the Melbourne Cricket Ground

IND vs AUS: Top three highest targets chased at Melbourne Cricket Ground in Tests

ind-vs-aus-top-three-highest-targets-chased-at-melbourne-cricket-ground-in-tests

Team India have had many ups and downs in cricket. They are one of the powerhouses across all three formats. Especially in Test cricket, India is among the top teams in history, having various records under their belts.
Notably, there are only four teams that have recorded a run chase of over 400 runs in test cricket, and the Indian team are among those nations. It is never easy to chase in the fourth innings of a test because conditions are against the batting side. But India have had some great chases in the last. Here we will talk about India's top five run chases in Test cricket.
<h2>Top Five Run-chases in Test Cricket by Team India</h2>
5. 264/3 vs Sri Lanka, 2001
India's fifth highest chase came against Sri Lanka in Kandy in August 2001. India had a target of 264 to win. But it was a great effort from the Indian top order. Rahul Dravid (75) and captain Sourav Ganguly (98*) played match-winning innings against the likes of Chaminda Vaas, Dilahara Fernando, and Muralidaran. India made 264/3 and won the game in 78.4 overs.
4. 276/5 vs West Indies, 2011
The fourth highest chase for India came against West Indies in Delhi in 2011. India had a score of 275 to chase in the fourth innings. They have a great start from Virender Sehwag (55 off 54). Gautam Gambhir (22) and Rahul Dravid (31) contributed well. After that, Sachin Tendulkar (76) and VVS Laxman (58*) scored crucial half-centuries to take India to 276/5 in 80.4 overs to take India to a great chase.
3. 329/7 vs Australia, 2021
The Gabba chase during BGT 2020-21 is one of the best wins in the history of the game, which came with India's second-string side against a full-strength Australian attack. With a first-inning lead of 33 runs, Australia set India a target of 328. Rohit Sharma (7) got out early. After that, Shubman Gill (91) and Cheteshwar Pujara (56) played a good hand each. Ajinkya Rahane (24) and Washington Sundar (22) also contributed well. Eventually, it was Rishabh Pant (89*) who played one of the best innings and helped India reach 329/7 to win the game and the series.
2. 387/4 vs England, 2008
 The highest chase in a Test on Indian soil was recorded in Chennai in 2008 by India against England. The visitors had a first-inning lead of 75 runs, and they declared their second innings at 311/9. India had to chase 387 runs. Gambhir (66) and Sehwag (83 off 68) gave India a dream start. Dravid fell (4) cheaply, but Tendulkar (103*) an unbeaten ton and Yuvraj (85*) helped India to reach 387/4 to reach the total and made history.
1. 406/4 vs West Indies, 1976
In 1976, India became only the second team to chase a 400-plus total in test cricket. It was the third test against West Indies, and India had a target of 403 to chase. Sachin Tendulkar (102) and Gundappa Viswanath (112*) slammed centuries. Mohinder Amarnath also scored 85 not out, and India made 406/4 in 147 overs to register their highest chase ever.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/sportswear-brand-puma-slams-sanjay-manjrekar-on-nitish-to-be-dropped-remark-after-reddy-s-spectacular-boxing-day-ton-/">Sportswear brand Puma slams Sanjay Manjrekar on "Nitish to be dropped" remark after Reddy's spectacular Boxing Day Ton </a>

The Indian cricket team are one of four teams that have chased a score of over 400 runs in test cricket.

Top five highest totals chased down by India in Test cricket 

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ICC Champions Trophy 2025: The ICC has officially confirmed the hybrid model for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and team India is all set to compete in this prestigious tournament! While fans eagerly await the BCCI's official squad announcement, the excitement is already building. In the meantime, let’s dive into a thrilling prediction of India’s probable squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a cricketing spectacle, scheduled from February 19 to March 9. Hosted across Pakistan and Dubai, this prestigious tournament will feature eight top teams battling it out in 15 thrilling matches.
India, captained by Rohit Sharma, finds itself in Group A alongside Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. All of India’s matches will be played in Dubai, starting with an exciting opener against Bangladesh on February 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
With political factors shaping the tournament’s venues, India’s Dubai campaign adds a distinct flair. Fans are set for a rollercoaster of action, with iconic rivalries, unforgettable moments, and nail-biting drama expected throughout the Champions Trophy 2025.
Following a grueling five-match Test series against Australia, India will focus on this high-pressure tournament. Packed with experience and young talent, the Men in Blue are geared up to showcase their dominance on the world stage.
Here’s a glimpse at India’s likely squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
<h2>India’s Probable Squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
Top-Order Stars: Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal are the front-runners to open India’s innings, with Shubman Gill waiting in the wings as a strong backup. Known for their consistency in ODIs, these players are expected to give India a flying start at the top.
Reliable Middle-Order: The middle order is set to shine with the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant. Rahul, who proved his mettle in the lower middle order during the 2023 ODI World Cup, is likely to be a key player once again. The explosive Surya Kumar Yadav and young talent Dhruv Jurel may also feature, adding depth and versatility to India’s batting lineup.
Dynamic All-Rounders and Spinners: Either of Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy will lead the charge as all-rounders, bringing balance to the squad. In the spin department, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to shoulder the responsibility, with their knack for breaking partnerships and keeping the pressure on.
Formidable Pace Attack: The fast-bowling unit will be headlined by Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami. Shami’s experience and skill make him a strong pick, despite limited appearances post the ODI World Cup. Rising stars like Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana could also earn spots, injecting fresh energy into India’s pace arsenal.
<h2>India’s Probable Squad</h2>
1- Rohit Sharma 2- Yashasvi Jaiswal 3- Shubman Gill 4- Virat Kohli 5- KL Rahul 6- Rishabh Pant 7- Suryakumar Yadav 8- Dhruv Jurel 9- Hardik Pandya 10- Nitish Kumar Reddy 11- Kuldeep Yadav 12- Axar Patel 13- Ravindra Jadeja 14- Jasprit Bumrah 15- Mohammed Siraj 16- Mohammed Shami 17- Arshdeep Singh 18- Harshit Rana
READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-cricket-champions-trophy-2025-schedule-teams-fixtures-full-squads-time-table/">ICC Cricket Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule, Teams, Fixtures, Full Squads, &amp; Time Table</a>

India’s probable ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad features a strong top order, a dependable middle order, versatile all-rounders, quality spinners, and a lethal pace attack, blending experience and emerging talent for success.

India’s squad combines experienced stars and young talents, with balanced batting, all-rounders, spinners, and a fiery pace unit.

India's Probable Squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025!

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Nitish Kumar Reddy has made history and has given India a hope to save or even win the ongoing Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Stadium. He struck his maiden Test ton which helped India save the follow-on and finish the day at 358/9. He became the 69th Indian batter to score a hundred on away soil.
His innings has kept India in the game, and the visitors have an outside chance. Nitish is unbeaten on 105 runs with 10 fours and one six. India are still trailing by 116 runs, but they are not far away. His century made the whole cricketing world praise him. He definitely silenced his critics who doubted his position in the playing XI.
<h2>IND vs AUS 4th Test: Puma slams Sanjay Manjrekar for his remark on Nitish Kumar Reddy's place in Playing XI</h2>
Nitish Kumar Reddy came out to bat when India lost Rishabh Pant at 191/6. He stretched an important partnership of 127 runs with Washington Sundar (50) for the 8th wicket. From there, Reddy played a matured knock and took risks when required and played cautiously when the pressure was on. With his hundred he became the first Indian batter to score a hundred at no. 8 on Australian soil.
His performance has not just earned him praise but also shut down all the critics. Notably, ahead of the MCG test, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar questioned Reddy's place in the playing XI. He said, "Does Reddy add value to this Indian side? Can we expect 120 runs from a No. 8 batter or, say, a 7-wicket haul like Shardul Thakur? At this stage, his bowling isn’t good enough, and his batting is too early to consider him a batting all-rounder.”
He also pointed out that India need specialist batter in place of Reddy. And what came as a special performance, the 21-year-old went on to slam an incredible century. His hundred has numerous reactions off the field. Famous sportswear brand PUMA Cricket also had a cheeky response to Manjrekar's remark with a tweet featuring Nitish Kumar Reddy in a "finger of the lips" pose.
The post suddenly caught the attention of the fans and spread like the fire in the woods. Reddy made a big difference with his impeccable knock, and India will hope that he can add a few more runs on Day 4 to take India to close to Australia's first-inning score. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/wtc-qualification-scenario-how-can-india-qualify-if-the-boxing-day-test-ends-in-a-draw-/">WTC Qualification Scenario: How can India qualify if the Boxing Day Test ends in a draw?</a>

Nitish Kumar Reddy slammed his maiden Test in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Stadium to help India reach close to Australia's score.