The BCCI has always had a trademark opening ceremony at the beginning of every TATA IPL season. But due to the Covid-19 Hiatus, the opening ceremony of the TATA IPL has been out for the past 3 years. But the BCCI has now approved of an opening ceremony for the upcoming IPL 2023 season. The trademark lights, stages, colors, music, and cultural performances will return. We might also see several A-listed Bollywood Superstars shaking their leg at the ceremony. Here is an in-depth look at the same:



<h2>TATA IPL 2023: Opening Ceremony to Take Place:</h2>



This is what a very senior BCCI official reported to a well-known media outlet, ?Yes, there will be an opening ceremony on the 31st. It will be a short one but as the home and away format returns, we felt it was necessary to welcome back the home crowd with a ceremony.?



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/03/Arijit-Singh-min-1024x576.jpg" alt="TATA IPL Opening Ceremony" class="wp-image-104719" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Arijit Singh is expected to perform at the TATA IPL Opening Ceremony. IMG SRC: MTV</figcaption></figure>



There are reports that the famous Bollywood Singer Arijit Singh has been approached and is in the conversation about performing at the opening ceremony. He has been the soulful voice behind many hit romantic songs. But as of now, no name is final. These are just reports.



The BCCI also had an opening ceremony for the inaugural edition of the Women?s Premier League. But that ceremony wasn?t taken well as it lacked a Bollywood or a Pop Artist in general. It was a beautiful ceremony with various cultural performances from many artists. But the absence of a star figure ensured that the people gave mixed reactions. Some people loved it but most of them found it very dull.



<h2>Absence of Opening Ceremony in TATA IPL:</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://admin.icccricketschedule.com/uploads/2023/03/TATA-IPL-Opening-Ceremony-min.jpg" alt="TATA IPL Opening Ceremony" class="wp-image-104723" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">IMG SRC: Sony TV Network</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>2019</td><td>Absence To Pay Tribute to Martyrs of Pulwama Attacks.</td></tr><tr><td>2020</td><td>Absence Due to Covid-19 Restrictions.</td></tr><tr><td>2021</td><td>Absence as the Tournament was Held in UAE.</td></tr><tr><td>2022</td><td>Absence Due to Covid-19 Restrictions.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2>Format and Important Points:</h2>



<ol type="1">
<li>The TATA IPL 2023 will be played in a home and away-format.</li>



<li>The two groups are as follows:</li>
</ol>



Group A:



<ul>
<li>Mumbai Indians</li>



<li>Rajasthan Royals</li>



<li>Kolkata Knight Riders</li>



<li>Delhi Capitals</li>



<li>Lucknow Super Giants</li>
</ul>



Group B:



<ul>
<li>Chennai Super Kings</li>



<li>Punjab Kings</li>



<li>Sunrisers Hyderabad</li>



<li>Royal Challengers Bangalore</li>



<li>Gujarat Titans</li>



<li>7 Games will be played at home and 7 will be played away.</li>



<li>70 league games across 12 venues, and in 52 days, the TATA IPL will be action-packed!</li>
</ul>



To know more go to <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/david-warner-appointed-captain-of-the-delhi-capitals-axar-patel-is-named-vice-captain-for-tata-ipl-2023/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/david-warner-appointed-captain-of-the-delhi-capitals-axar-patel-is-named-vice-captain-for-tata-ipl-2023/" rel="noreferrer noopener">David Warner Appointed Captain of the Delhi Capitals. Axar Patel is Named Vice Captain for TATA IPL 2023.</a>



Read more such articles at <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/shreyas-iyer-injury-3-captaincy-options-for-kkr-in-absence-of-shreyas-iyer/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/shreyas-iyer-injury-3-captaincy-options-for-kkr-in-absence-of-shreyas-iyer/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shreyas Iyer Injury: 3 Captaincy Options for KKR in Absence of Shreyas Iyer.</a>



To know more go to the <a href="https://www.iplt20.com/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.iplt20.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">official website of the TATA IPL.</a>

TATA IPL Opening Ceremony||TATA IPL Opening Ceremony

TATA IPL 2023: BCCI Approves Opening Ceremony. TATA IPL Opening Ceremony Returns.

tata-ipl-2023-bcci-approves-opening-ceremony-tata-ipl-opening-ceremony-returns

The TATA IPL 2023 Opening Ceremony is expected to be one of the best spectacles in the IPL in a long time.?The opening ceremony was last held in 2018 and there were various reasons why the opening ceremony has not been held a post that. The TATA IPL 2023 opening ceremony has been approved and the BCCI has got some of the top Bollywood stars on board for the function.?WPL 2023 however, had a grand opening ceremony in the inaugural season. But the WPL 2023 opening ceremony did not have a Bollywood star. Here is an in-depth look at all the details of the upcoming TATA IPL 2023 opening ceremony:?



<h2>Bollywood Stars to Take Part in the TATA IPL 2023 Opening Ceremony:&nbsp;</h2>



The BCCI has got approval for conducting the TATA IPL 2023 Opening ceremony. So, like the tradition of every year, a grand ceremony will take place just before the 1st match of the season. This is the first time that a ceremony will take place after 4 long years. The first game takes place on the 31st of March between the defending champions Gujarat Titans and the 4 times winners of the IPL, the Chennai Super Kings. ?



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="http://www.icccricketschedule.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/TATA-IPL-Opening-Ceremony-min.jpg" alt="TATA IPL Opening Ceremony" class="wp-image-104723" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kriti Sanon has previously been a part of the opening ceremony. IMG SRC: TATA IPL</figcaption></figure>



The expected Bollywood stars to perform at the TATA IPL 2023 Opening Ceremony are Tamannaah Bhatia, Kriti Sanon, and Katrina Kaif. The names of Tiger Shroff, Arijit Singh, and Rashmika Mandhanna are also hovering around. However, there is no official announcement or shared information regarding the performers. ?



Top performers such as Ranveer Singh, Kriti Sanon, and Varun Dhawan have been?a part of the TATA IPL Opening ceremony in previous years. In the 10th year of the TATA IPL back in 2017, the BCCI held 10 distinct opening ceremonies at all of its 10 venues. So, over the years the BCCI has tried and tested different ideas.?



<h2>When Will the TATA IPL Opening Ceremony 2023 be??</h2>



The TATA IPL 2023 Opening Ceremony will take place right before the first match of the season. The game will begin at 7:30 pm Indian Standard time. And the ceremony is expected to begin at 6: 30 pm Indian Standard time. The ceremony will be a compilation of various dances, songs, and cultural performances. &nbsp;



<h2>Where will the Ceremony Take Place??</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="http://www.icccricketschedule.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Opening-Ceremony-e1679026093878.jpg" alt="TATA IPL Opening Ceremony" class="wp-image-104725" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The ground for the first match is the venue itself. IMG SRC: Sony TV</figcaption></figure>



The ceremony will take place on the ground where the match is supposed to take place. The venue for the first match is the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and that is exactly the venue for the opening ceremony. It is a ground display that will lighten the spirits of every cricket fan. &nbsp;



To know more go to <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/tata-ipl-2023-list-of-possible-impact-player-per-team-in-the-tata-ipl-2023/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/tata-ipl-2023-list-of-possible-impact-player-per-team-in-the-tata-ipl-2023/" rel="noreferrer noopener">TATA IPL 2023: List of Possible Impact Player Per Team in the TATA IPL 2023.</a>



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To learn more go to the <a href="https://www.iplt20.com/" target="_blank" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.iplt20.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">official website of the TATA IPL 2023.?</a>

TATA IPL 2023 Opening Ceremony: Big Bollywood Star to Perform, When, Where?&nbsp;

tata-ipl-2023-opening-ceremony-big-bollywood-star-to-perform-when-where

Former Australia player Mark Waugh made a bold statement on the retirement of Rohit Sharma amid all the criticism. He said that if he was the selector of Team India, he would've told the captain thank you for your services in the longest format of the game. 
Rohit Sharma is under massive up and it won't be a surprise if we will see the India captain in action last time in the Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The skipper has failed terribly to get going in the ongoing series and time is running away for him. 
Rohit Sharma, who missed the first Test of the series, batted in the middle order for two games to let KL Rahul open. However, the captain struggled to get going and then returned as an opener in the fourth Test of the series in Melbourne but failed to deliver in the first innings. 
The upcoming innings will be a massive opportunity for him to turn the tides and silence all these critics. However, if he fails to get going, there are chances that he might retire, and Jasprit Bumrah will take over the leadership of the team in this format. 
<h2> ‘Rohit, thank you for your service" - Mark Waugh </h2>
Mark Waugh said that if Rohit Sharma fails, then selectors should tell him that they are getting Jasprit Bumrah as captain for Sydney. While talking to Fox Cricket, he said that all great player's career comes to an end. He explained:
"If I was a selector now, it depends what happens in the second innings, but if he doesn't make runs … I'd be saying, ‘Rohit, thank you for your service. You've been a great player, but we're going to bring in Jasprit Bumrah as captain for the SCG. The signs are there that he's past his best. It happens to all players. All great players come to an end at some stage." 
Mark Waugh added that Rohit Sharma's movement in the field and his tactical decisions haven't been great and he has been given leniency by the BCCI for his past contributions. He explained: 
"The numbers don't lie. Even his movement in the field and his tactical decisions have been off the pace. I think they've given him leniency already because he's been a great player for India, but at some stage, that leniency has to stop. It stops after this Test match unless he makes runs in the second innings." 
In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Rohit Sharma has slammed just 22 runs. He has been averaging just around 11 in the last 8 games in the longest format of the game.
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>

Rohit Sharma is under massive up and it won't be a surprise if we will see the India captain in action last time in the Tests in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

‘Rohit, thank you for your service' - Massive statement comes on India retirement

-rohit-thank-you-for-your-service-massive-statement-comes-on-india-retirement-

Former Indian head-coach Ravi Shastri has praised Australia's decision of not declaring in the final session of the fourth day of the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match despite having a lead of more than 300 runs. He feels that their decision to not do so is a smart one and believes that Aussie skipper Pat Cummins delayed the declaration call because he realised that the Indians would have dominated if they had declared in the final session as the pitch was completely favouring the batters on the fourth day of the MCG Test-Match. 
The Men in Blue were not even able to dismiss the number 10 and number 11 Australian batters in the final-session. This means that the surface is providing a lot of assistance to the batters. If the Rohit Sharma-led team would have scored 50 runs without losing a single wicket in the final period of the fourth day, then Australia would have lost the dominance which they had created. 
Realizing this, Cummins took the bold decision of batting for the entire day. However, Ravi Shastri also mentioned that the Pat Cummins-led team will try to put the Men in Blue under pressure by taking the new ball at the beginning of the fifth and final day of the Melbourne Test-Match.
"Australia is worried about India's strong batting line-up. This is also a reason for delaying the declaration. Especially what happened at the Gabba is still fresh in Australia's mind. India had won that day by chasing 329 runs. The fact that there are many players in the Indian team who show aggressive batting may have also caused the declaration to be delayed. India went through a similar situation in 2015.
The Aussies, who did not declare on the fourth day that day, declared after batting a few overs at the beginning of the fifth day. India was able to draw the Test that day. It is not impossible for India to get a draw in Melbourne as well. But India needs to try for victory," said Ravi Shastri.
Elite Australian seamer Mitchell Starc also said that following the conclusion of the fourth day's play, the home team will get enough overs to try and bowl the Indians on the fifth and final day of the Melbourne Test-Match. 
"Since the fifth day starts early, we will be getting the chance to take the 2nd new-ball after the end of 80 overs. After this, we will get around 18 overs and then the new ball will decide the fate of the match," Starc said
The fifth and the final day of the Melbourne Boxing-Day Test-Match promises to be a really exciting one as both teams would be looking give their best shot of taking the lead heading into the final Test-Match in Sydney. 
It will be particularly a more important for the Men in Blue as a win in this match would guarantee them the chance to retain the BGT Trophy while Australia, who haven't won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series since 2018 would be looking to end the Indian dominance.
Do Read: <a href="https://www.icccricketschedule.com/top-five-highest-totals-chased-down-by-india-in-test-cricket-/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Top five highest totals chased down by India in Test cricket</a>

Ravi Shastri, Head Coach of India looks on as they are interviewed ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup match between India and Namibia at Dubai International Stadium | Image: Getty Images

Former Indian Head Coach Ravi Shastri has made a big revelation regarding Australia's decision of not declaring on the fourth day of the MCG Test-Match.

IND vs AUS 4th Test: Why didn't Australia declare on the fourth day? Ravi Shastri reveals the reason

ind-vs-aus-4th-test-why-didn-t-australia-declare-on-the-fourth-day-ravi-shastri-reveals-the-reason

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...

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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 

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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

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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 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

ipl-csk-s-strongest-playing-11-if-conway-and-ravindra-miss-the-start-of-ipl-2025

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.