The South Africa Cricket Team is going to be tough to beat at the ICC T20 World Cup 2022. For the past few years, the performance of the South African team has been mediocre at the ICC events but this time around the team looks very solid. The team is not full of match-winners but if the names on the list perform to their potential the South Africa Cricket Team can go all the way. Here is a look at their 3 most crucial players:&nbsp;



<h2>1) Kagiso Rabada will play for South Africa:&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/10/Kagiso-Rabada-min.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-95139"/><figcaption>IMG SRC: India Fantasy</figcaption></figure>



There is just one and only Kagiso Rabada. No one can replace KG! He bowls exceptionally well in the powerplay and is a beast in the death overs. His yorker and bouncers in the death overs seem to be laser-guided. Kagiso Rabada has been one of the most consistent players for the men in green. He bowls in tandem with Anrich Nortje and if they both find the rhythm, no one can stop the South Africa Cricket Team. Very few people know this but Kagiso Rabada can bat, he can easily be used as a number 8 option.



<h2>2) David Miller:&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/10/David-Miller-min-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-95138"/><figcaption>IMG SRC: CSA</figcaption></figure>



David Miller has to show the seniority that his name holds. He wasn?t in his prime form from 2018 to 2021 but he found himself in 2022. He took the Gujarat Titans to an IPL victory by finishing games. He bats deep and if it is in his arc, it goes out of the park. His off-side game has improved too. He has now started hitting sixes over cover. &nbsp;



If Miller, De Kock, and Van Der Dussen can contribute, the batting unit of South Africa Cricket Team will get the job done. Miller holds a lot of experience. He has played top-flight cricket since 2011. It is about time; he makes use of it all. &nbsp;



<h2>3) Tabraiz Shamsi will play for South Africa:&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2022/10/Tabraiz-Shamsi-min.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-95140"/><figcaption>IMG SRC: Wisden</figcaption></figure>



Tabraiz Shamsi is the first-choice spinner of the South African team. The team also has Keshav Maharaj but Shammo, the magician will be starting for them. Shamsi is a nightmare of lefty batters. He beats the batters in flight. He has been playing freelance cricket across the globe and is very highly rated by the ICC. There are only a few spinners with the class and daring of Tabraiz Shamsi. He is also of the mindset that if you want wickets, you need to be brave enough to go for runs. &nbsp;



To know more go to<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/england-cricket-team-3-important-players-at-the-icc-t20-world-cup-2022/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/england-cricket-team-3-important-players-at-the-icc-t20-world-cup-2022/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> England Cricket Team: 3 Important Players at the ICC T20 World Cup 2022.</a>



Read more such articles at <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/australian-cricket-team-3-important-players-at-the-icc-t20-world-cup-2022/" target="_blank" data-type="post" data-id="95104" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Cricket Team: 3 Important Players at the ICC T20 World Cup 2022.</a>



To know more go to the<a href="https://cricket.co.za/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://cricket.co.za/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> official website of the South African Cricket Association.</a> &nbsp;

South Africa Cricket Team: 3 Most Important Players for ICC T20 World Cup 2022.&nbsp;

south-africa-cricket-team-3-most-important-players-for-icc-t20-world-cup-2022

The <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/reasons-why-virat-kohli-must-open/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/reasons-why-virat-kohli-must-open/">ICC T20 World Cup 2024</a> will now host the Super 8 stage. 8 out of 20 participating teams have made it to this round. There will be two groups of four teams each in the Super 8, and two teams from either group will qualify for the semifinal. Group 1 has India, Australia, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, while Group 2 has England, West Indies, <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/usa-vs-sa-dream11-prediction-south-africa-playing11-usa-playing11-t20-world-cup-2024-super-8-america-vs-south-africa-fantasy-team-sir-viv-richards-stadium-pitch-report/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/usa-vs-sa-dream11-prediction-south-africa-playing11-usa-playing11-t20-world-cup-2024-super-8-america-vs-south-africa-fantasy-team-sir-viv-richards-stadium-pitch-report/">South Africa, and United States</a>. The first game will be played on June 19 between USA and South Africa.



As the competition has its top 8 teams, there has been a buzz around who will be the semi-finalists in this competition. Well, there are some top contenders, but nothing can be said as bigger teams have found it hard to get going. So, many former cricketers and cricket pundits are giving their opinions on who could be the four semi-finalists in the tournament. Amid that, the South African spinner <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keshav_Maharaj" data-type="link" data-id="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keshav_Maharaj">Keshav Maharaj</a>, who is part of the team and likely to be in action on Wednesday, comes up with his own prediction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">T20 World Cup 2024: Keshav Maharaj predicts four semi-finalists of the tournament</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/06/Keshav-Maharaj-on-T20-World-Cup-2024-1024x534.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-135886" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit: Google</figcaption></figure>



South Africa have been on a roll and won four consecutive games to make it to the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/t20-world-cup-2024-super-8-teams-and-key-matches-to-watch/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/t20-world-cup-2024-super-8-teams-and-key-matches-to-watch/">Super 8</a>. They will be facing the co-host USA in the first game of the next round in Antigua. South Africa will be favourites heading into this game, but they can't write off USA, who beat teams like Pakistan and Canada. Meanwhile, in one of the videos shared by IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals, Keshav Maharaj was seen naming four teams who could play in the semi-finals of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.



He picked South Africa, India, Australia, and West Indies. Maharaj said, ?I wanna go with South Africa, I think we built on what we produced last year in 50 over World Cup. I think India is obviously one of the huge favourites in T20 World Cup 2024 from a balanced perspective; they are probably one of the better balanced teams. I will never write off Australia, so I?ll say they are one of the top candidates. And the fourth one, I?m gonna say West Indies." Surprisingly, Maharaj didn't name the defending champions, England.



Jos Buttler and co. have done a decent job when they needed to win the last two games by a big margin. They did it and qualified. They have momentum and are playing a good brand of cricket. Afghanistan can be a surprise, as they have beaten New Zealand, and the conditions in West Indies suit their team more. So, it will be interesting to see which team will qualify, but one thing is sure: the pitches in West Indies are better, and we see more interesting games here in the Super 8 of the T20 World Cup 2024.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/reasons-why-virat-kohli-must-open/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/reasons-why-virat-kohli-must-open/">3 Reasons why India must stick with Virat Kohli as opener in Super 8 despite his recent failures</a>

Keshav Maharaj picks semi-finalists of T20 World Cup 2024; leaves out England|Keshav Maharaj picks semi-finalists of T20 World Cup 2024; leaves out England

Keshav Maharaj picks semi-finalists of T20 World Cup 2024; leaves out England

maharaj-picks-t20-world-cup-2024-semi-finalists

The ongoing <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/t20-world-cup-2024-3-indians-to-retire/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/t20-world-cup-2024-3-indians-to-retire/">ICC T20 World Cup 2024</a> is coming to an end. After 53 electrifying cricket matches played between the top 20 teams across the world at nine different venues, we have our first finalists. South Africa beat Afghanistan in the first semifinal to qualify for the finals, and they will face the winner of the second semifinal between <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-t20i-player-rankings-updated-mens-t2oi-batting-and-bowling-rankings-travis-head-surpassed-sky/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-t20i-player-rankings-updated-mens-t2oi-batting-and-bowling-rankings-travis-head-surpassed-sky/">India and England.</a>



The grandfinal of the tournament is scheduled to take place on June 29 (Saturday) at Kensington Oval in Barbados. It has been a grand tournament, and for the first time, a total of 20 teams participated in the edition. Adding to that, the <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-t20i-player-rankings-updated-mens-t2oi-batting-and-bowling-rankings-travis-head-surpassed-sky/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/icc-t20i-player-rankings-updated-mens-t2oi-batting-and-bowling-rankings-travis-head-surpassed-sky/">International Cricket Council (ICC)</a> also tried to crack the US market to give this game more exposure. That's why, for the first time, an ICC event took place in the United States.



To some extent, this move has benefited and given a push to this game in the USA. However, the ICC has also announced a record-breaking sum of prize money for this tournament for every team, which is more than the previous tournaments. Here we will talk about the distribution of <a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/tournaments/t20cricketworldcup/news/record-prize-money-declared-for-t20-world-cup-2024" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icc-cricket.com/tournaments/t20cricketworldcup/news/record-prize-money-declared-for-t20-world-cup-2024">prize money in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ICC T20 World Cup 2024: International Cricket Council announces a Record sum as Prize Money for all teams</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2024/06/T20-World-Cup-2024-Prize-Money-ICC-declared-record-breaking-money-for-the-teams-Winner-will-get-INR-20-Crore-1024x532.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-141699" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Credit: T20 World Cup 2022</figcaption></figure>



The ICC has announced a total of 11.5 million USD in prize money for the tournament, which is more than the double of the last edition (USD 5.6 million in 2022). This is more than the previous editions of the T20 World Cups. A total of 20 teams took part, and there is something for every team. It starts with the winner of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.



The team that wins this tournament will receive a prize money of USD 2.45 million (approximately INR 20 crore), which is more than the previous editions. England won the tournament in 2022 and won 1.6 million USD (approximately 11 crore). Meanwhile, the runners-up will receive an amount of USD 1.28 million (approximately INR 8.8 crore).



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rank</td><td>Teams</td><td>Prize Money (in USD)</td></tr><tr><td>Winner</td><td>TBC</td><td>2.45 million</td></tr><tr><td>Runner-Up</td><td>TBC</td><td>1.28 million</td></tr><tr><td>Losing Semi-finalists</td><td>Afghanistan</td><td>787,500</td></tr><tr><td>Super 8 (5th to 8th)</td><td>Australia, United States, West Indies, Bangladesh</td><td>382,500</td></tr><tr><td>9th to 12th Places</td><td>New Zealand, Pakistan, Scotland, Sri Lanka</td><td>247,500</td></tr><tr><td>13th to 20th Places</td><td>Netherlands, Nepal, Uganda, PNG, Namibia, Oman, Canada, Ireland</td><td>225,000</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Note: Every win will earn an additional amount of USD 31,154</figcaption></figure>



The two teams that are losing semifinalists will receive an amount of USD 787,500 each. Australia, the United States, West Indies, and Bangladesh exited the T20 World Cup 2024 in the Super 8, and all four teams will get USD 382,500 each. Meanwhile, the teams finishing between the 9th and 12th spots will get USD 247,500 each.



These teams are New Zealand, Pakistan, Scotland, and Sri Lanka. These four teams finished third in their groups during the first round. Then, the remaining eight teams that finished the tournament from 13th to 20th will receive a prize money of USD 225,000. Meanwhile, every win at any stage of the tournament, will earn an additional cash prize of USD 31,154. You can see the complete details in the table above.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/t20-world-cup-2024-3-indians-to-retire/" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/t20-world-cup-2024-3-indians-to-retire/">3 Indian Players who might announce T20I retirement after T20 World Cup 2024</a>

T20 World Cup 2024 Prize Money ICC declared record-breaking money for the teams; Winner will get INR 20 Crore|T20 World Cup 2024 Prize Money ICC declared record-breaking money for the teams; Winner will get INR 20 Crore|

T20 World Cup 2024 Prize Money: ICC declared record-breaking money for the teams; Winner will get INR 20 Crore

t20-world-cup-2024-money-distribution

Temba Bavuma-led South Africa completed a successful 2-0 series whitewash versus Sri Lanka at home and this series victory has given them a major boost in their hopes of qualifying for the final of the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. 
The recent win of the Proteas over the Sri Lankans has seen them displace defending-champions Australia from the 1st position of the overall standings as the Temba Bavuma-led team now have a PCT of 63.33 next to their name following their sixth Test victory our of 10 contests. The Kangaroos on the other hand have dropped down to the 2nd place with a PCT of 60.71.
Two-time runners-up of WTC, the Indian Cricket Team are at the third spot with a PCT of 57.29 following their recent defeat in the Adelaide Test-Match versus the Mighty Australians three days ago. 
Dhananjaya de Silva-led Sri Lanka's series defeat versus the Proteas has made things difficult for them in terms of securing a spot in the WTC Final but they are still alive in the race to qualify for the title-deciding clash slated to be played at the Lord's Cricket Stadium from the 11th of June of 2025. The Sri Lankans are still positioned at the fourth place and their PCT has reduced to 45.45.
<table style="width: 642px; height: 200px;">
<thead>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Position">Pos</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Team">Team</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Matches Played">Matches</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Matches Won">Won</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Matches Lost">Lost</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Matches Drawn">Drawn</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Matches Abandonded">NR</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Total Points">Points</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;" title="Percentage of Points">PCT</td>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">South Africa</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">10</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">76</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">63.330</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Australia</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">14</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">102</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">60.710</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">3</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">India</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">16</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">110</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">57.290</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Sri Lanka</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">5</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">60</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">45.450</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">5</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">England</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">21</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">1</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">114</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">45.240</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">New Zealand</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">13</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">69</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">44.230</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Pakistan</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">10</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">6</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">40</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">33.330</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">8</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">Bangladesh</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">12</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">4</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">8</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">45</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">31.250</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 20px;">
<td style="width: 42.2292px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">9</td>
<td style="width: 132.656px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">West Indies</td>
<td style="width: 91.5208px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">11</td>
<td style="width: 51.0521px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 46.5417px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">7</td>
<td style="width: 71.2917px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">2</td>
<td style="width: 37.1979px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">0</td>
<td style="width: 67.4271px; text-align: center; height: 20px;">32</td>
<td style="width: 77.4167px; height: 20px; text-align: center;">24.240</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
 The 5th day of the 2nd Test-Match between Sri Lanka and the South Africans started off with the visitors having the advantage. Dhananjaya de Silva &amp; CO needed a total of 143 runs to save the series while the home team needed five-wickets to seal the whitewash. However, set batters Dhananjaya de Silva (50 runs) and wicketkeeper batter Kusal Mendis (46 runs) put their team in an advantageous situation and pushed the Proteas on the backfoot. 
However, South Africa's elite slow-left-arm-orthodox spinner Keshav Maharaj had some other plans and he single handedly executed the comeback for his team as his fifer helped the hosts to inflict an all out on the Sri Lankans for a score of 238 runs and they secured a victory in the 2nd contest by a margin of 109 runs. 
The Proteas had also secured a comfortable victory in the opening contest of the series by a margin of 233 runs which also witnessed the Sri Lankans getting bundled out for an embarrassing score of 42 runs in their 1st inning. 
Temba Bavuma and his men will now be taking part in a two-match Home Test-Series versus Pakistan and they will be looking to seal yet another comfortable series win. That series will kick off from the 26th of December in the city of Centurion The Sri Lankans on the other hand will host the Mighty Australians in January of next year for a home two-match Test-Series.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/More-problems-for-India-Australia-set-to-be-boosted-by%E2%80%A6./" target="_blank" rel="noopener">More problems for India! Australia set to be boosted by….</a>

South African team celebrating their win vs Sri Lanka | Image: Getty Images

South Africa displaces Australia at the top of the WTC Standings following their win vs Sri Lanka | Updated WTC Points Table

south-africa-displaces-australia-at-the-top-of-the-wtc-standings-following-their-win-vs-sri-lanka-updated-wtc-points-table

It's really hard to imagine Pakistan's test team without the presence of Shaheen Shah Afridi and it's a situation which is really hard to occur. However, a shocking call was taken by the National Team's selectors and despite being in excellent form with the ball, elite Pakistani seamer was not considered for selection in Pakistan's two-match Test-Series verus the South Africans.
Afridi delivered am exceptional performance in the One Day International series versus the same opposition, dismissing the highest number of batters (7) and his role with the ball was crucial in his team's success. 
But despite all this, the pacer wasn't even considered for selection for the two-match Test-Series versus the Proteas. According to some news reports, prior to the squad-announcement of the Shaheens, a selector reportedly asked the 24-year-old to take part in a practice Four-day match before the commencement of the Test-Series. 
Due to some personal reasons, Shaheen wasn't able to comply with the instructions of the Pakistani selectors. This was comprehended as "disobedience" by the selectors which led to his eventual exclusion from the Test team. Notably, a similar instruction was given to former skipper Babar Azam too, who also didn't comply with the instructions but was still included in the Test team.
According to some inside sources of Pakistani Men's National Cricket Team, it's believed that the dominating behavior of a certain selector has caused a feeling of dissatisfaction among the national team players. The selector, who recently announced his retirement from Cricket, reportedly maintains a dominating attitude even towards former players. It's believed that the selector is none other than Aleem Dar who was drafted in the selection committee just a few months back. 
According to some close sources of Shaheen, the pacer still has the passion in him to represent Pakistan in the longest format of the game and he was pretty disappointed by the selectors' decision to exclude him from the Test Team for the South Africa series. 
Post the conclusion of the One-Day International series, the 24-year-old even gave the offer to stay in South Africa for the upcoming Test-Series if the national team selectora felt the need to include him in the squad, but no initiative was taken to select him. 
The Shan Masood-led team desperately felt the absence of a left-handed pacer and this was pretty evident in the Centurion Test-match versus the Proteas. Another left-arm seamer Mir Hamza, who is known for his speed and variations, was not considered for selection too. 
Talking about Shaheen Shah Afridi again, the reason for not selecting him was given as workload management but shockingly, he was allowed to participate in the upcoming edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). He is a part of the team of Fortune Barishal and the 24-year-old is anticipated to play in five contests for the franchise.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/watch-irfan-pathan-and-sanjay-manjrekar-get-involved-in-a-heated-argument-over-the-run-out-of-yashasvi-jaiswal-on-live-tv/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Watch:Irfan Pathan and Sanjay Manjrekar get involved in a heated argument over the run out of Yashasvi Jaiswal on live TV</a>

Shaheen Shah Afridi of Pakistan celebrates the dismissal of Australia's Mitchell Starc | Image: AFP

Shaheen Shah Afridi was shockingly not considered for selection in Pakistan's Test Team for the South Africa series and Aleem Dar is reportedly considered the main reason behind his exclusion from the team.

Shaheen Afridi neglected the orders of the selectors and this led to his exclusion from the Test Team

shaheen-afridi-neglected-the-orders-of-the-selectors-and-this-led-to-his-exclusion-from-the-test-team

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

updated-wtc-points-table-following-south-africa-s-win-over-pakistan-south-africa-survive-a-scare

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

South Africa are the inaugural champion of the ICC Champions Trophy, as they won the first edition back in 1998. But since then, they have made it to the knockouts of multiple ICC events but couldn't win a title yet. But they will look to end this drought as they enter the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as one of the favorites.
South Africa are placed in Group B, which already has Australia, England, and Afghanistan. This is the toughest group of two, as all four teams can surprise anyone. The Proteas will begin their journey with their first game against Afghanistan on February 21 at National Stadium, Karachi.
South Africa have been very consistent in the ICC events in the last few tournaments across formats. They made it to the final of the T20 World Cup 2024 and were the semifinalists in the ODI World Cup 2023. Recently, they made it to the World Test Championship final. Hence, they will not be the underdog this time around. On Monday, Cricket South Africa announced the 15-member squad for the coming tournament.
<h2>Temba Bavuma to lead South Africa in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025</h2>
South Africa announced a strong 15-member squad that has almost all the bases covered. The batting unit looks strong, and they have some serious fast bowlers in their ranks. Temba Bavuma will lead the squad that has some big match-winners like Heinrich Klaasen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, and Rassie van der Dussen.
Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj will be two specialist spinners, as the conditions in Pakistan and the UAE are more in favor of the spinners. The Proteas have brought back Lungi Ngidi and Anrich Nortje, who have experience of playing in Pakistan before. Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder are the two specialist pace-bowling all-rounders in the squad.
Anrich Nortje will play his first ODI since September 2023, as he was out of action due to injury. Similarly, Ngidi is also making his comeback after missing out on the last 4-5 months of action due to a groin injury. The Proteas have gone with a similar batch of players that played in the ODI World Cup 2023. Ten players are from the same squad. South Africa will play their group matches on February 21, 25, and March 1, respectively.
South Africa's Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Temba Bavuma (c), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Aiden Markram, David Miller, Kagiso Rabada, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs (wk), Rassie van der Dussen, Anrich Nortje, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/gautam-gambhir-backs-this-youngster-to-be-india-s-next-captain-after-rohit-sharma-leaves-out-bumrah-gill-and-pant/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gautam Gambhir backs this youngster to be India's next captain after Rohit Sharma; leaves out Bumrah, Gill and Pant</a>

Temba Bavuma will lead South Africa in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

South Africa will play their first match of the ICC Champions Trophy on February 21 against Afghanistan at National Stadium, Karachi.

South Africa announce Pace-heavy 15-member squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025; Temba Bavuma to lead the star-studded team 

south-africa-announce-pace-heavy-15-member-squad-for-icc-champions-trophy-2025-temba-bavuma-to-lead-the-star-studded-team-

Just five weeks are left until the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The marquee event is all set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan with the top 8 teams in the world. But just one month before the tournament's start, South Africa suffered a major blow as star pacer Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the tournament.
This news came as a body blow to South Africa, as Nortje, with his experience, is a key player for the ODI setup. However, his injury-driven history has now forced him to miss yet another big tournament for South Africa.
As per the latest updates, the pacer went for scans on January 13 (Monday), and it has been revealed that he might not be able to make it to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in time. His injury was a big shock for the team as he returns to the ODI squad since the end of 2023. But he will feel himself unlucky to be sidelined due to injury.
<h3>South Africa to announce Anrich Nortje's replacement for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 soon.</h3>
Anrich Nortje played his last ODI back in September 2023 and was out of action due to injury. Recently, he made his comeback and was playing in the ongoing SA20 2025 for Pretoria Capitals. However, his injury has now ruled him out of the remainder of SA20 2025 as well, and there is no hope for him to recover until South Africa's opening clash on February 21.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced the 15-member squad a couple of days back for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, they will have to make necessary changes in it. The CSA hasn't announced any replacement yet, but they are likely to announce it very soon.
South Africa are part of Group B along with Australia, England, and Afghanistan. It is called the 'Group of Death,' with all teams having the capability to make it to the knockout. The Proteas will be opening their campaign on February 21 with a match against Afghanistan in Karachi. They will face Australia and England on February 25 and March 1, respectively.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/record-alert-smriti-mandhana-shatters-world-record-achieves-rare-feat-with-her-stunning-ton-in-3rd-odi-in-ranjkot/">Record Alert: Smriti Mandhana shatters World Record; achieves rare feat with her stunning ton in 3rd ODI in Ranjkot</a>

South Africa have not announced the replacement of injured Anrich Nortje yet.

Anrich Nortje played his last ODI for South Africa in September 2023. He will miss yet another major tournament due to injury.

Huge Blow for South Africa: Anrich Nortje Ruled out of the Champions Trophy 2025

huge-blow-for-south-africa-anrich-nortje-ruled-out-of-the-champions-trophy-2025

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a T20 league operated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Inaugurated back in 2007, the tournament is one of the biggest and the wealthiest among franchise-level cricket tournaments. It is a double-round-robin tournament comprising 10 teams representing either states or cities of India.
The IPL is widely regarded as one of the greatest platforms for emerging players, whether from India or other countries around the world. Scouting several big, talented players, the league has seen many promising players enter the role of skipper. 
<h2 dir="ltr">Here’s a list of the five youngest captains in IPL history:</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr">1: Virat Kohli (22 years 4 months and 6 days)</h3>
Former Indian captain Virat Kohli is the youngest-ever captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He stepped in as the captain for RCB in 2011, replacing injured Daniel Vettori for three games. 
As the captain, Kohli’s leadership was marked by his intense commitment to fitness, work ethic, and aggressive approach to the game. In 2021, Kohli decided to step down as RCB’s captain after the IPL season, citing the need for a new phase in his career. 
<h3 dir="ltr">2: Steve Smith (22 years 11 months and 9 days)</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_6791a78be3f89.jpg" alt="" width="783" height="487">
Steve Smith took the Pune Warriors India captaincy from Sourav Ganguly (Image Credit: gettyimages)
Australian legendary batter Steve Smith, one of the most accomplished cricketers of the current generation, is next on our list of the youngest IPL captains. He turned in as the stand-in captain for Pune Warriors India, replacing veteran Indian skipper <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sourav_Ganguly">Sourav Ganguly</a>, who rested himself in 2011. Despite his young age, his calmness and perseverance in decision-making on the field set him apart, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Steve Smith also turned the captain for Australia in several matches of the 2015 World Cup, as he led them to wins on multiple occasions. Smith also led Australia in the 2019 Cricket World Cup as well as the 2017 Champions Trophy. 
<h3 dir="ltr">3: Shreyas Iyer (23 years 3 months and 21 days)</h3>
Indian middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer stepped into the captaincy role after Gautam Gambhir stepped down from the post-midseason in 2018. Under his leadership, DC underwent a remarkable transformation, rising from the lower ranks of the tournament to become one of the most competitive teams.
Having started his leadership role in 2018, he went on to be a superstar with the Kolkata Knight Riders, this time not replacing but reuniting with Gautam Gambhir as captain and mentor. Iyer won the IPL title as the skipper with the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024. 
<h3 dir="ltr">4: Suresh Raina (23 years 3 months and 22 days)</h3>
<img class="img-additional" src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_430x256_6791a7909eb8f.jpg" alt="" width="775" height="482">
Former Indian batting all-rounder Suresh Raina led his favourite franchise, Chennai Super Kings, in MS Dhoni’s absence in the year 2008. Raina was largely known for his upfront skills with the bat as well as his electrifying efforts on the field. However, relatively young Raina captained the likes of great Matthew Hayden, Michael Hussey, and Muralitharan with immense motivation and contributed to CSK’s growing competitive edge as they made it to the finals in the inaugural season. 
<h3 dir="ltr">5: Rishabh Pant (23 years 6 months and 6 days)</h3>
Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was named the captain of Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the 2021 season after the former skipper Shreyas Iyer was ruled out of the season owing to injury. Despite being new to a leadership role, Pant stepped up with sheer confidence and showed great maturity on the field. Pant’s natural energy and unique stance on the field helped the team get back their morale, though owing to some unforeseen situations Pant doesn’t have a very impressive record as a skipper.
ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-5-underdog-talents-who-can-be-star-favourite-players-post-ipl-2025/">Five Underdog Talents Who Can Make It Big in IPL 2025</a>

Here is a list of the youngest among the IPL captains.

Scouting several big, talented players, the league has seen many promising players enter the role of skipper at a very young age, as they went on to lead several senior players under their leadership.

IPL, in its history, has seen several legendary young players who have stepped in as captains of their franchise. Here is a list of the youngest among the IPL captains.

Five youngest captains in IPL history ft. Rishabh Pant

five-youngest-captains-in-ipl-history-ft-rishabh-pant

Elite Indian All-Rounder Hardik Pandya was once considered as the front runner to become the next captain of Team India. He was leading the team in T20 Internationals in the absence of Rohit Sharma who was busy preparing for tha 2023 ODI World Cup. Many thought that Junior Pandya will replace Rohit as the captain in limited overs formats. 
However, ever since Gautam Gambhir was appointed as the new head coach of the Men in Blue, things have gone all wrong for Pandya. Suryakumar Yadav was given the T20 captaincy duties, which was a complete gamble. Moreover, the 31-year-old was not even considered for the role of the vice-captain. 
He was the Vice-captain in the T20 World Cup of 2024 but, he was stripped off that role too. The Mumbai Indians skipper was not even considered for the role of the Vice-captain in the five-match T20 International series versus England. Instead, spin bowling all-rounder Axar Patel became the vice-captain of the team.The Men in Blue didn't appoint a deputy in the T20 International series versus South Africa and Bangladesh. 
Nobody has a clear answer to the question of why Pandya was not considered for the Vice-captaincy role. Former Indian Wicket-keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik also has no idea about it and he said, "I really don't know. I don't have a clue about why he was removed from the Vice-captaincy position. I don't see any reason. He (Hardik) has done well and he has also proven himself to be a good leader."
<h2>Hardik Pandya's record as the captain of Team India</h2>
Under the leadership of Hardik, the Indian Team have taken part in 16 T20 International matches, securing wins in 11 matches out of those 16 contests. Out of four T20 International series, Hardik helped the Indian team win three. 
<h3>What's the reason behind Hardik's removal as the captain of Team India? </h3>
Meanwhile, according to the news reports of Indian media, the fitness concerns of the 31-year-old was the main reason behind his removal as the captain of the Indian Cricket Team. He has a tendency of getting injured midway through an ICC tournament and then he will directly regain fitness in order to participate in the IPL. 
This didn't go down well with Gambhir and the selectors and this is the main reason why he was stripped off his captaincy duties. The player is currently participating in the T20 International series versus England and he will be playing in the ODI series too. 
He's a part of the Champions Trophy squad of Team India and his good form with both bat &amp; ball will be crucial in the success of the Rohit Sharma-led team in the marquee ICC event of this year. 
The 2013 Champions Trophy winners will be a part of Group - A alongside Fierce-Rivals Pakistan, Asian-Rivals Bangladesh, and Mitchell Santner-led New Zealand. They will be kicking off their 2025 Champions Trophy campaign versus Bangladesh in Dubai.
<h4>Champions Trophy 2025 squad of Team India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Axar Patel, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav.</h4>
Do Read:<a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/-pakistan-darr-gaya-pcb-attacked-as-they-are-yet-to-announce-icc-champions-trophy-2025-squad-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> "Pakistan darr gaya"- PCB attacked as they are yet to announce ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad</a>

Hardik Pandya took India home at the end, India vs Bangladesh, 1st T20i | Image: AFP/Getty Images

Hardik Pandya, once considered as the main contender to lead Team India is not even struggling to get the Vice-captaincy duties of the National Team

Hardik Pandya was considered as the main contender to lead Team India but the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as the head coach has made the situation complicated for the Indian All-Rounder

Why was Hardik Pandya removed as the captain of Team India despite having an excellent record

why-was-hardik-pandya-removed-as-the-captain-of-team-india-despite-having-an-excellent-record

Prithvi Shaw did not find any takers as the Mumbai batter went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction. Prithvi, who had a base price of Rs 75 lakh in the auction, was released by Delhi Capitals but he did not attract any bids from the ten franchises.
Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal has said that Prithvi Shaw is misunderstood in many ways but needed a 'jolt' in the form of the IPL 2025 Auction snub. Shaw has been part of the Delhi franchise since returning as the U-19 World Cup winning captain in 2018 and was bought for 1.2 Crores. Ahead of the 2022 auction, the Mumbai batter was retained by DC for Rs. 7.5 Crore but the past few seasons hasn't been great for the 25-year-old.
Speaking to Sports Today, Jindal said that Shaw is a great kid but needed a jolt to get up from his slumber. The DC co-owner feels that Shaw needs to work hard, get back the love of the game and get disciplined. Jindal ended by saying he hopes the Mumbai batter can return back to his best form
Delhi has backed Prithvi Shaw a lot. DC had hoped that he is a powerplay player and would hit 6 boundaries in one over. And he did that too. He hit Shivam Mavi for 6 fours in an over. He had a lot of potential and DC backed him to the hilt. We always thought that if Shaw manages to score, we will win. And we gave him a lot of chances," Kaif told on Jio Cinema.

Prithvi got a lot of chances and teams have now finally moved on, and it is a matter of embarrassment that he did not get a bid for Rs 75 lakh. Maybe now, he finally goes back to basics. Someone like Sarfaraz Khan got into the national team by scoring lots and lots of runs," he concluded.
In the 79 matches he has played, Shaw has scored 1892 runs at an average of 23.95 and a strike-rate of 147.47. He also scored 14 fifties during this time.
<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_870x_6790c5c9db6f5.jpg" alt="">
Prithvi shaw is just 25 and has lot of cricket left inside him ,the thing he need that to focus on his fitness and batting weakness. 
If the things goes well, not the next year but shaw will probably get chance to play in IPL this year too,if any team needs replacement for player ,he might be a good to get that place.

Prithvi Shaw Can Might Have Chance To Play IPL this Year ? | TATA IPL 2025

Prithvi Shaw After a successful start of his career getting set back and set back ,but the things is not over yet , Prithvi can be have to focus his fitness,the improved fitness can solve many things for him.

prithvi-shaw-can-might-have-chance-to-play-ipl-this-year-tata-ipl-2025

The MI Emirates produced a clinical display with the bat and the ball, handing the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders a 28-run defeat at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in the Match 14 of International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 on Tuesday, January 21.
MI Emirates got off to a strong start when they were asked to bat first, with openers Muhammad Waseem (38) and Kusal Perera making a strong stand at the top. The Sri Lankan Perera was the first to leave for 23 soon before the powerplay ended, following a 42-run partnership between the two players. Tom Banton entered, and he and Waseem made sure the MI Emirates maintained the run rate.
Banton was out for nine around the halfway point of the innings, while Waseem was out for 38 shortly after. Kieron Pollard replaced skipper Nicholas Pooran, but the seasoned right-hander struggled to get going and was eventually sent out for five by Ali Khan. With just over 6 overs remaining, the score was at 102/4.
Following Dan Mousley's dismissal for six, Romario Shepherd joined his skipper for the innings' last stretch. Jason Holder made a solid 49, but Pooran, who was hitting it cleanly, was almost at his half-century before he fell.
<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_870x_6790c540e2f01.jpg" alt="">
Shepherd was given more attention in the last few overs as a result. In order to end with an undefeated 38 from 13 deliveries, the powerful right-hander then moved through the gears and hammered three maximums and four boundaries. After slowing down for a few overs in the middle, the MI Emirates eventually reached 186/6.

In second inning with openers Kyle Mayers and Andries Gous attacking the MI Emirates bowlers, the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders got off to a fast start. Before Dan Mousley ran him out with a brilliant bit of fielding, Mayers, who hit three sixes, scored 22 off 14 deliveries.
 
The MI Emirates seized control after that, finishing a 39-run partnership in the fourth over in second inning.
Following Joe Clarke's dismissal by Akeal Hosein for three, Romario Shepherd took out Michael-Kyle Pepper for five and Alishan Sharafu for four. The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders were 56/4 at the conclusion of a thrilling Powerplay.
The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders were further put under pressure after Waqar Salamkheil dismissed Laurie Evans for seven and Zahoor Khan caught Gous in the deep for thirty-four. Hopes of a recovery were raised when Sunil Narine and Andre Russell were called to the middle and embarked on a half-century stand.
But Narine was caught at cover for 13 in the 18th over, and David Willey was dismissed by Fazalhaq Farooqi in the 19th. The MI Emirates won easily, and Russell, who was still undefeated at 37 from 23 deliveries, was unable to lead his team across the finish line.

players like Romario Shepherd and Nicholas Pooran, the MI Emirates were able to close the gap on the top team to just two points.
Alzarri Joseph and Shepherd each took two wickets to thwart the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders' chase, while four of the MI Emirates' bowlers were in excellent form that evening.
In the whole match Romario Shepherd was the centre of attraction for the crowd with his bowling and batting, although the show was lasser but effective for MI Emirates to build pressure on the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.
MI Emirates beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 28 runs
<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_870x_6790c5068b2ed.jpg" alt="">
MI Emirates 186/6 in 20 overs (Nicholas Pooran 49, Romario Shepherd 38 not out, Muhammad Waseem 38, Jason Holder 2 for 38, Ali Khan 2 for 58)

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 158/9 in 20 overs (Andre Russell 37 not out, Andries Gous 34, Romario Shepherd 2/14, Alzarri Joseph 2/33, Waqar Salamkheil 1/13)

Player of the Match: Romario Shepherd

MI Emirates Beats Abu Dhabi Knight Riders | Pooran And Shepherd Shines

In ILT 2025 mi Emirates beats Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by 28 runs ,in this match Romario Shepherd and Nicholas Pooran SHines with bat,where Shepherd done a good bowling too.

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Romario Shepherd representing MI Emirates (MIE) Shepherd inning against pacer Ali Khan, hitting 6,4,4,6,6 to help his side to 186/6. He eventually finished with 38 off just 13 deliveries, with four fours and three sixes punctuating his innings.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be delighted to know that their latest recruit, Romario Shepherd, has smashed 26 off the final five deliveries of the final over against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the International T20 (ILT20) in Abu Dhabi on January 21 (Tuesday).

With MI Emirates batting first, Shepherd entered the scene with his team in need of a strong finish. Facing Ali Khan in the last over, the hard-hitting all-rounder smashed an astonishing 26 runs off the final five balls. His innings was a clinic in clean, fearless striking:
The buzz around Romario Shepherd’s IPL prospects has intensified following his stellar performance. With RCB already eyeing impactful players for IPL 2025, Shepherd’s display of brute force and death-over mastery aligns perfectly with the team’s needs. His ability to turn games around in a matter of deliveries makes him a prime contender for the upcoming season.
Shepherd Could be X factor for RCB for lifting the IPL trophy With his batting and bowling and finishing the game at end. 

<img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/images/202501/image_870x_6790c269a44e9.jpg" alt="">
Although, earlier Shepherd have some good records in ipl while playing with other team like MUMBAI INDIANS, LUCKNOW SUPER GIANTS and HYDERABAD too.
RCB secured his services in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction for his base price of INR 1.5 crore.

RCB's Shepherd hits 26 runs in last 5 deliveries against Abu dhabi Knight Riders

Romario Shepherd hits 26 runs in last 5 deliveries in ILT against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders,while shepherd performance pump the MI Emirates to victory over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders